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Washington, DC— Fitch Ratings has upgraded the rating on Children's National Medical Center’s outstanding debt to 'A' from 'A-'. In addition, the Rating Outlook was revised to Stable from Positive, an improved position that reflects Children’s National’s best fiscal year in history. Citing continued sound financial performance, growing volume and sound growth strategies, the global rating agency concluded that Children’s National continues a positive financial performance trajectory.

“At a time when many organizations are being downgraded, it is gratifying to be recognized as one of the strongest pediatric health systems in the nation,” observed Kurt Newman, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our organization is aggressively pursuing innovative operational and business strategies that enable us to provide the best care for all children.”

Fitch Ratings specifically cited Children National’s strong physician alignment, increased capacity and enhanced relationships with other providers in the region as important indicators of current strength and growth potential. The Fitch Ratings noted that Children’s National has maintained a “leading and growing market position in its service area for pediatric services.” Fitch Ratings also praised the “depth and breadth” of its management team and said Children’s National’s strong financial performance is “expected to be sustained going forward.”

“Clearly our focus on operational discipline, strategic partnerships, and growth in both market share and philanthropy have proven to be the right investments,” according to Doug Myers, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer.

About Children’s National Health System

Children’s National Health System, based in Washington, DC, has been serving the nation’s children since 1870. Children’s National is ranked in the top 20 in every specialty evaluated by U.S. News & World Report; one of only four children’s hospitals in the nation to earn this distinction. Designated a Leapfrog Group Top Hospital and a two-time recipient of Magnet® status, this pediatric academic health system offers expert care through a convenient, community-based primary care network and specialty outpatient centers. Home to the Children’s Research Institute and the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children’s National is one of the nation’s top NIH-funded pediatric institutions. Children’s National is recognized for its expertise and innovation in pediatric care and as a strong voice for children through advocacy at the local, regional and national levels. For more information, visit ChildrensNational.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.